Saffron, black garlic: Elevate your pasta into a gourmet dish

Pasta has long been a favourite comfort food, but with the right ingredients, it can be transformed into a gourmet experience. Chefs across the globe are elevating this humble dish by incorporating high-end ingredients, making it a showstopper at fine dining tables — even in Indian kitchens. From black garlic to exotic mushrooms, these additions not only add depth of flavour but also bring a touch of luxury to your pasta.


Give a gourmet touch

Chef Anshul Dhyani believes that high-end ingredients can seamlessly blend into Indian-inspired pasta dishes, bringing a touch of gourmet sophistication to home cooking. He says, "In Indian cooking, truffle oil, burrata cheese, and wild mushrooms (such as porcini or morels) are common high-end ingredients that elevate pasta dishes." He explains that adding truffle oil or wild mushrooms can elevate pasta to gourmet levels, with burrata’s creamy texture eliminating the need for meat. Chef Rollin Lasrado suggests finishing pasta with truffle oil and wild mushrooms like shiitake or porcini for an indulgent, flavour-packed experience.


Add Indian flavours for a fusion twist

For a fusion twist, Indian spices can transform pasta while keeping it vegetarian. Chef Gopinath Vyraperumal recommends saffron, cardamom, and fresh coriander for an elevated taste. His suggestion? Try a spaghetti coriander pesto for a herbaceous, Indian take on traditional pasta. Chef Avisek Bagchi adds that cumin and roasted fennel seeds can bring earthy warmth without overpowering the Italian flavours. These spices create a perfect balance, blending the best of both worlds.

Exotic ingredients to enhance your pasta

Truffle oil: Adds rich, earthy aroma and flavour.

Wild mushrooms: Porcini, morels and shiitake bring depth.

Burrata cheese: Creamy texture, replaces the need for meat.

Black garlic: Deep, sweet flavour with a balsamic-like richness that adds complexity.

Edible flowers: Nasturtiums or pansies can add a vibrant visual element and subtle flavours.

Saffron & cardamom: For an exotic Indian twist.